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OPINION This week we saw an indication that we may indeed actually have a spring season this year despite Old Man Winters best efforts to deprive us of one. Birds were in full voice, wind chill factors were non-existent and the mounds of snow piled everywhere disappeared quicker than the Maple Leafs playoff hopes. However, we also were given a little demon- stration of the dangers that spring brings specifically flooding. After two days of rainy weather and tempera- tures that climbed well above freezing, some rural roads in Halton Hills and Milton partic- ularly in the areas bounded by Steeles Avenue and Britannia Road had to be closed when nearby waterways spilled their banks and took out portions of the road. On 15 Sideroad in Halton Hills the rain caused a mini-landslide in which a substantial mound of earth gave way along an embank- ment and covered most of the road. In another sure sign of spring, Conservation Halton issued a high water safety bulletin informing area residents that increased water levels and flows in most rivers and creeks could lead to localized flooding and that everyone should use extreme caution around bodies of water. This is not a warning to be taken lightly and is especially directed at adventurous children. Parents are reminded to instruct their kids to stay well back of stream banks as it could take only seconds for a tragedy to occur. In the next little while enjoy the warmer temperatures and what spring has to offer but be aware of the potential hazards as well. Springs dangers Steve Nease LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear editor, It has been said that the sole pur- pose of education is to awaken human- itys natural curiosity and satisfy it afterwards. Through their continued support of environmental education endeavours at Christ the King Catholic Secondary School (CtK) and through- out other Halton Hills schools, P.O.W.E.R. continues to do just that. Spring 2006 P.O.W.E.R. involved Grade 10 science students in full day field studies through their Engaging Youth in Environmental Studies pro- gram. Students examined environmen- tal conditions of woodlots, soils and streams in Hungry Hollow and partici- pated in reforestation efforts. November 2006 P.O.W.E.R. hosted a conference that brought together Halton Hills students and teachers to discuss the Niagara Escarpment and to develop a network of motivated young people. From this, Club Green was founded. Fall 2007 P.O.W.E.R., working with Club Green, held E-POWER 2007 and raised awareness about the causes of climate change and their pre- vention, funded the research and development of a student-created board game (eVolve) and a musical workshop, and offered a public presen- tation by Bob MacDonald. As recent recipients of the Halton Hills Chamber of Commerce Civic Pride Award, Club Green applauds the efforts of P.O.W.E.R. especially those of Leslie Adams, Ian Barratt and Ann Geh. P.O.W.E.R. has much to celebrate as they continue to help change minds and attitudes in order to conserve the richness of the incredible natural environment that surrounds us and that is often taken for granted. They have put the power in our hands and we could not have done it without them! Shari Typer, Christ the King CtK commends P.O.W.E.R. for its efforts Letters to the editor must include an address and daytime telephone number. Unsigned letters will not be published. 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Phone: 905-873-0301 Fax: 905-873-0398www.independentfreepress.com Something bugging you? What do you think? Below are the results of our most recent online poll. For the current poll go to www.independentfreepress.com As of April 7 Halton residents will have to use the new GreenCart disposal system to get rid of food waste. How do you feel about the GreenCart system? Its great for the environment and I will be happy to use it (66%) I understand the need for it but Im not happy about using it (18%) I will not use my GreenCart (16%) (Note; This question will remain online until Tuesday, April 8) The Independent & Free Press is published Wednesday and Friday and is one of several Metroland Media Group Ltd. community newspapers. Editorial and advertising content of The Independent & Free Press is protected by copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited. THE INDEPENDENT & FREE PRESS Dear editor, On February 6 we experienced another snowstorm so I telephoned a local snow removal firm to clear our driveway and sidewalk. The next day the firm called to say they were experiencing equip- ment problems and were unable to do any clearing that day. I tele- phoned two other firms to no avail. Because I am a senior I was not looking forward to doing the clearing but knew it had to be done. After an hour of shoveling I hadnt accom- plished much but had to keep going. It was then a young man came down the street, with shovel in hand, and introduced himself. Immediately after, another young man arrived with shovel in hand and introduced himself. I had never met either of them, nor did they know each other, but they insisted that I do no further shoveling. They did not stop until the driveway and walkway were cleared and would accept nothing but thanks. I will never forget what these two young gentlemen did for a stranger. I will never be able to express my appreciation or gratitude for what they did that evening. I know thank you is not enough, but I shall say it again thank you John and Michael. Your new old friend... Ron Scott, Georgetown Dear editor, I am writing this letter to thank my neighbours for their thoughtful- ness and kindness. In January I fell and have to wear a brace and use crutches. I was pret- ty much housebound. My neighbours, Jim and Barb, not only picked up groceries for me, but walked my dog nightly. Even with sub-zero temperatures, battling snow and ice, they still came nightly to exercise my dog, even giv- ing him a nightly treat. A big thank you to Barb, Max, Mark, Henry and Dave and his son for clearing my driveway and side- walk. After clearing their properties by hand they made sure mine was clear from snow. I believe when someone does something good for us we should pass it on which I certainly will do. Sandy Loke, Georgetown Kind snow shovelers thanked by new old friend Neighbours thanked 6 Acton/Georgetown, Friday, April 4, 2008